In a significant move, President Biden has utilized his authority under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to issue two Presidential Memoranda protecting key U.S. Outer Continental Shelf areas from future oil and natural gas leasing. The White House announced the decision today, emphasizing the long-term impact of the withdrawals.

The Presidential Memoranda have no expiration date and effectively prohibit any future oil and natural gas leasing in the specified areas. This action builds on previous measures taken by President Biden, including protections for the Northern Bering Sea and the Beaufort Sea in Alaska.

Areas Protected by the Presidential Memoranda

The withdrawals encompass three distinct ocean and coastal regions:

1. Eastern U.S. Atlantic Coast and Eastern Gulf of Mexico

President Biden’s decision shields approximately 334 million acres of the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico from future leasing. This move aims to safeguard vital fishing and tourism economies along the eastern U.S. coast.

2. Pacific Coast (California, Oregon, and Washington)

Nearly 250 million acres of Federal waters off the West Coast have been protected, preserving critical habitat for marine life. The states of California, Oregon, and Washington have long advocated for the full protection of their coasts.

3. Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area (Alaska)

A total of 44 million acres in the Northern Bering Sea, home to diverse wildlife and crucial marine ecosystems, have been safeguarded. This area plays a vital role in the food security and cultural heritage of numerous coastal Tribes in Alaska.

NOIA’s Response

Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association, expressed concerns over the decision, citing potential negative impacts on American energy consumers and national security. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to offshore energy that considers both economic growth and energy independence.

NOIA intends to collaborate with the incoming administration and Congress to address the implications of the leasing ban and advocate for policies that support the domestic energy sector.